(Cross Post) Think Outside the Box: Building Critical Thinking Skills Together

**This is a cross-post from The Thinkers' Club. While I may be listed as the host it will actually be their usual group hosting**

Many individuals find themselves caught in the tension between conformity and independent thought, feeling pressured to align with group opinions. This struggle can stifle innovation and lead to poor decision-making, ultimately hindering personal and organizational growth. Solutions such as implementing training programs that emphasize critical thinking skills have been suggested, but they often encounter obstacles like limited buy-in from leadership and varying levels of engagement among participants. How can we create an environment that nurtures independent thought and robust dialogue without undermining team cohesion and collaboration?

• What are some common signs that groupthink is occurring within a team or organization, and how can we recognize it early?
• How do our personal biases and assumptions influence our ability to think critically? What strategies can help mitigate this?
• What role does diversity of thought play in enhancing critical thinking, and how can we ensure it is genuinely valued in group settings?
• How can we create an environment where dissenting opinions are encouraged and respected without causing conflict or division?
• What are some effective techniques for challenging our own assumptions and those of others during discussions or decision-making?

Encourage critical thinking with 3 questions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hoE8mtUS1E
How to think, not what to think
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dluwVks444
Episode 1.1: What is Critical Thinking?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0yEAE5owWw
What is Group Think? ...and How to Prevent it
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGGMf41K24Y
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In addition to the main topic (above), we also provide breakout rooms at 8pm as follows:
“Applied Practical Philosophy” – philosophy and its applications
“Town Square” – politics and current events
“Conference Room” – open for anything
“The Lounge” – light social chat